Angell Sport!

Angell are great and the personal service from Paul is excellent. The biggest problem for me is whenever I am approaching a shot where the racket might touch down, I pull out so I don't mark the frame (a thing of beauty!).

In hindsight though, a TC100 might suit my game better than my TC95s. That is my own spec choice issue though. Picked the spec with my ego not my brain!

Angell are great and the personal service from Paul is excellent. The biggest problem for me is whenever I am approaching a shot where the racket might touch down, I pull out so I don't mark the frame (a thing of beauty!).

In hindsight though, a TC100 might suit my game better than my TC95s. That is my own spec choice issue though. Picked the spec with my ego not my brain!

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That's why I'm selling my Vantage..........it's not my specs. As much as I like it, what's the point in modding a custom frame?

That's why I'm selling my Vantage..........it's not my specs. As much as I like it, what's the point in modding a custom frame?

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Mod it to the point when you know that it is the spec you want, then get a new beautiful custom one in that exact spec with all the weight etc hidden. Then you have a bling custom racket to YOUR specification choice. Does it get better than that?

Vibration may have been a bad choice of words on my part .... it is a vibrating sound that is made no actual vibration is felt in the hand or arm.

Whatever it is is a fluke with this particular racquet and not, I'm sure indicative of the line ....... I'm sure Paul and i will reach a compromise, credit, replacement or something that is satisfactory to both of us. The racquet itself plays well, it just makes an occasional vibrating sound (nothing is transmitted to the arm) , comfort and feel is outstanding. I would not hesitate to recommend Paul's product. Let me emphasize that nothing is really noticeable when playing, only when striking the palm of your hand with the racquet face.

The Angell racquets are beautifully designed and put together and I'm probably going to purchase another.

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Cool. OK I get it now.

But the vibrating sound could be again a vibration, just one that does not bother you physically. If it is inherent to the design, I am not sure how it can be dampened without changing the racket's specs like weight.

Thanks all guys for keeping this going and it's been good to see feedback but as this dropped down the pages be good to bump it up and see if we can get more feedback and pictures especially as they've been delivered to people now i believe!

Angell are great and the personal service from Paul is excellent. The biggest problem for me is whenever I am approaching a shot where the racket might touch down, I pull out so I don't mark the frame (a thing of beauty!).

In hindsight though, a TC100 might suit my game better than my TC95s. That is my own spec choice issue though. Picked the spec with my ego not my brain!

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They are pretty racquets, but not that pretty !! I'm certain they will take a few bumps and bruises .

What attacts me about the TC95 is the 18x20 pattern ...... I did order the the TC100, but do wish t came with an 18x20 pattern.

Firstly, it looks superb. I could say that this doesn't matter, but as a psychologist I know that we absolutely can't distinguish function from form entirely and it does no harm at all to smile at your racket when you take it out the bag.

Secondly, I took the opportunity to adjust my specs on this change. A couple of emailed questions to Paul and he steered me in a direction that would give me what I wanted... similar swing weight but a slightly lighter overall weight.

The racket is an absolute delight. It has a great solidity but not from stiffness. I believe someone else said that they thought the foam was responsible for this; I believe it's more to do with the lay-up of the graphite. The Angell frames are specified for optimum playing characteristics not minimal manufacturing costs! When I read that the lay-up is different my experience with the big brands finally made sense: their mainstream frames just feel slightly hollow to me (I don't doubt that the pros get a totally different product).

Congratulations to Paul on designing such a great racket, including the cosmetics and branding which, for me, are a rare mix of classic and contemporary... I think mine is going to look good for years to come.
(And I completely understand the point of the person who said he didn't like the thought of scraping it on the ground!).

My only regret is that, because I was playing with specs, I didn't feel it was worth risking buying the multi-racket deal... I should have had more faith in Paul's recommendation.

However, it's a small issue given that I have the perfect racket for me. I placed an order for a second frame last night (having just finished a match); but this morning I'm wondering if I should have ordered a third too... grrrr!

I've gone for the TC95, 16 x 19, 63RA, standard length, 320gms and 315mm balance. Oh, I also opted for the leather grip (so the specs have been done on the basis of the heavier grip).

It is, hands-down, the best racket I've ever played with and I've tried quite a few. The big win is, as others have said, the solidity of the frame. It's not stiff, I can feel the flex and pocketing of the strings when I'm hitting with someone who hits the ball well, but it has an evenness of performance in the frame that inspires major confidence.

Anybody have a idea of how long it takes to get your rackets once you've ordered them on the Angell site? I was told a week but at that point in time I'm not sure that Paul knew I was in the states. Although I doubt there's many English people that have my first name.

I need to say so far I am thoroughly impressed with Paul's service and I am someone who puts a premium on that. I do a lot of research and ask a lot of questions before a purchase like this (I would compare this to my purchase of a custom guitar amp that took me about 6 months to pull the trigger on) and Paul replied promptly and thoroughly every time and was able to aid in the decision making process with his expertise. I ended up ordering 2 and I will be getting back here once I receive them. Very very excited.

have to say i am very impressed. overall quality of this racket is incredible. looks and feels like an expensive racket. cosmetics are nice. wish the Angell "A" on the throat was a bit smaller but other than that no issues at all

i haven't played anyone good with it yet, just knocked around. Racket feels incredibly solid, and the touch is very nice. So far I would say a bit better than my Donnay Pro One which I really like as well, and had no intention on switching from...

I am doing some matchplay tomorrow and will post more in depth feedback. What I can say is the frame is nice, and Paul is a great guy. Very good service and communication!

have to say i am very impressed. overall quality of this racket is incredible. looks and feels like an expensive racket. cosmetics are nice. wish the Angell "A" on the throat was a bit smaller but other than that no issues at all

i haven't played anyone good with it yet, just knocked around. Racket feels incredibly solid, and the touch is very nice. So far I would say a bit better than my Donnay Pro One which I really like as well, and had no intention on switching from...

I am doing some matchplay tomorrow and will post more in depth feedback. What I can say is the frame is nice, and Paul is a great guy. Very good service and communication!

Just strung my TC100 and it seems to have a noisy vibration ..... haven't hit with it, but will try to do so tomorrow.

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Paul had me send the racquet to Mike McCrory, he found a loose weight in the handle and everything s/b okay now ....Plus my TC95 is due to arrive any day now, possibly before the TC100 is returned. The Angell folks are great people to deal with and they make a great racquet.

Some companies really sweat the details, some don't. I recall when Angell (nee Vantage) was coming out with a 105 racquet, they kept putting off the release of it for a time. Paul said at the time they wanted to do a little more testing to make sure it was how they wanted it. I use one with a little lead (to about 11.5) and it's a terrific frame.

Some companies really sweat the details, some don't. I recall when Angell (nee Vantage) was coming out with a 105 racquet, they kept putting off the release of it for a time. Paul said at the time they wanted to do a little more testing to make sure it was how they wanted it. I use one with a little lead (to about 11.5) and it's a terrific frame.

^^ not sure what you don't understand. The custom options allow me to get something almost nobody makes these days -- a 105 sq.in. racquet in the 11.3 ounce vicinity (strung). The lead allows me to refine the specs a bit further to my preference. And the price is very competitive when one buys more than one.

^^ not sure what you don't understand. The custom options allow me to get something almost nobody makes these days -- a 105 sq.in. racquet in the 11.3 ounce vicinity (strung). The lead allows me to refine the specs a bit further to my preference. And the price is very competitive when one buys more than one.

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Yes I understand it. It just doesn't sound right to me. When I think custom racket, I imagine someone coming home and taking the specs, and then arranging a trial session for fine tuning, and then delivering the final product along with an expensive chocolate as a gift. If I have to add lead, it loses the charm.

Yes I understand it. It just doesn't sound right to me. When I think custom racket, I imagine someone coming home and taking the specs, and then arranging a trial session for fine tuning, and then delivering the final product along with an expensive chocolate as a gift. If I have to add lead, it loses the charm.

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If you want that level of customization the you would have to pay a whole heck of a lot more. . .and be a woman to receive the chocolate.

Yes I understand it. It just doesn't sound right to me. When I think custom racket, I imagine someone coming home and taking the specs, and then arranging a trial session for fine tuning, and then delivering the final product along with an expensive chocolate as a gift. If I have to add lead, it loses the charm.

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How much would you expect to pay for a service like that? $1000.00 for a bespoke racket? I think for the prices the level of customization is more than adequate.

Wholeheartedly agree with this. For an small premium on top of the big-name brands, you get a solid racquet with great feel, customized to your desired specs. PLUS you get a personal level of attention way above and beyond anything you could reasonably expect for the price you are paying.

Paul was very helpful in laying out the options as I was trying to transition away from my APDCs (due to elbow issues).

i actually think the customer service from Paul is worth the extra coin for the racket. The racket plays and speaks for itself... just picking it up you can tell it is quality before you even strike it. However, if something goes wrong with your racket with another brand good luck, especially with babolat. Paul responds quickly, kindly, and honestly every time.

My TC95 came this morning, but as my foot/ankle is in a cast it will be a while before I get to use it... I will say it is a beautiful racquet.

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@Ced & @DgDavid - Can't help noticing that you guys have already put ads up to sell some of your Angell racquets. I hope you don't mind me asking if they didn't quite live up to expectations, or if it was a specification issue etc.

I'm just in the process of deciding to place an order for one and I'm trying to keep a reality check by seeing those who didn't quite fit with these racquets (Angell & Vantage) alongside the many who seem more than happy.

@Ced & @DgDavid - Can't help noticing that you guys have already put ads up to sell some of your Angell racquets. I hope you don't mind me asking if they didn't quite live up to expectations, or if it was a specification issue etc.

I'm just in the process of deciding to place an order for one and I'm trying to keep a reality check by seeing those who didn't quite fit with these racquets (Angell & Vantage) alongside the many who seem more than happy.

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They are great racquets , but they take a little much effort for a 77 year old to use ... I knew that when i ordered, having had a Vantage before, but was hopeful some of my game might return with the Angell's ..... didn't happen, hence the offer to sell.

I'm a primary baseliner keeping the ball out of the middle of the court to get short balls and to put points away at the net. My serve is my biggest weapon with a big flat serve and heavy slice/kick serve. Thus the extended length and 70 RA stiffness, really want to produce a stick that plays to my game with my serve and ground strokes.

Definitely prefer 16x19 open string pattern to the livelier feel/action on the ball.

Just trying to find the perfect mix. Love the plush feel of my C10 but looking for a little crisper response.

Played with an extended length racquet before and loved the results. Don't come to net much but when I do I put it away rather than going for touch unless I have to or playing I'm doubles. I do want it to be maneuverable tho so I'm between the .25 or .5 extension.

has anyone played with TC100? What does the head shape like? more circular? oval?

I went thru making a racket on the website.. Are the specs( wt and balance) on there unstrung? If you want the black leather grip will Paul account for the weight of the leather to those specs?

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The TC100 has oval head shape. The spec on Angell website is unstrung spec. Paul should readjust weight and balance based on grip types you want. All 4 frames I ordered from him have no lead tape in the hoop. I think the weight customization is done at the handle only.

I'm a primary baseliner keeping the ball out of the middle of the court to get short balls and to put points away at the net. My serve is my biggest weapon with a big flat serve and heavy slice/kick serve. Thus the extended length and 70 RA stiffness, really want to produce a stick that plays to my game with my serve and ground strokes.

Definitely prefer 16x19 open string pattern to the livelier feel/action on the ball.

Just trying to find the perfect mix. Love the plush feel of my C10 but looking for a little crisper response.

Played with an extended length racquet before and loved the results. Don't come to net much but when I do I put it away rather than going for touch unless I have to or playing I'm doubles. I do want it to be maneuverable tho so I'm between the .25 or .5 extension.

Oh and looking for a swing weight around 325.

Anyways I'll hang up and listen haha

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That can be too powerful racquet. You can either lower stiffness or change string pattern to 18x20 to tame the power.

I have TC95 (310g, 63RA, 27in, 16x19, 320mm), and found it quite powerful. The "D" shaped beam is faster thru their than those box beam frames are, and this makes the frame very whippy. Sweet spot is huge for a 95 sq.in racquet face. Ball feels is clean, solid, and consistent. I'd compare it to Wilson Blade 98 with slightly more mute feel. Even though TC95 doesn't hit heavy ball like Donnay Pro One 16x19, but I can whip the ball with less effort and drive the ball to baseline consistently. The main string distribution is dense in the middle and more open towards both sides.

The TC95 18x20 (same balance and weight) is a completely different frame. It has very low power, but still hit the ball very clean and solid. Will try to change weight and balance for more power.

That can be too powerful racquet. You can either lower stiffness or change string pattern to 18x20 to tame the power.

I have TC95 (310g, 63RA, 27in, 16x19, 320mm), and found it quite powerful. The "D" shaped beam is faster thru their than those box beam frames are, and this makes the frame very whippy. Sweet spot is huge for a 95 sq.in racquet face. Ball feels is clean, solid, and consistent. I'd compare it to Wilson Blade 98 with slightly more mute feel. Even though TC95 doesn't hit heavy ball like Donnay Pro One 16x19, but I can whip the ball with less effort and drive the ball to baseline consistently. The main string distribution is dense in the middle and more open towards both sides.

The TC95 18x20 (same balance and weight) is a completely different frame. It has very low power, but still hit the ball very clean and solid. Will try to change weight and balance for more power.

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Think so? I think I've settled on the 11.4 Oz. frame, the 11.7 + Extended length would be a load to swing. I'm looking for a crisper response than my C10.

In most cases, 63-67RA for 20mm beam is a perfect combination for playability and comfort. 63RA of TC95 plays slightly firmer than 63RA of C10 Pro.

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Thanks for the reply and help! I apologize but I ended up going with the 70 RA frame before I saw your reply. I read where that is unstrung and is closer to 66 or 67 RA when all is said and done. So I went with that because I was after the livelier feel/directional control, also have no arm issues so the stiffer frame should be no problem there.

If its too much, no big deal. I'll adjust and I'll know better for next time.

Not hand chance to play with it yet - icy with rain at the moment, so even us Scots are off the courts, but thought I'd post some initial observations.

Specs came in pretty well spot on. Now that it's strung and with a dampener, it's 345g and 9pts HL - which is what I was aiming for. From my previous posts earlier in this thread you'll see I currently play with a Bio 200 Tour (16x18) and a 4D 200 (18x20). My 4D 200 comes in at 350g and 8 pts HL, the Bio is 367g and 9 pts HL. I like the Bio - its punch, spin potential, quickness through the air etc, but would prefer it to be more like the 4D 200 in weight, so this is my attempt to find that kind of spec.

The Angell looks great and feels just right in the hand.

I've included some pics comparing it visually to the Bio 200 Tour. You'll see that it's very similar (even the lettering etc). The only two noticeable differences are the grip and head shape. The grip is fractionally squarer than the Dunlops and feels a bit larger (all size 3), so I may forego the overgrip I normally add. The Angell head is a bit wider (less oval) than the Dunlops - which I'm happy about prefer . Interestingly one of Dunlop's comments on the new F series is that they've made the heads less oval than the Bio series.

Pics of the Angell TC95 compared to the Dunlop Bio 200 Tour
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I was able to add a boatload of lead to the bottom of the throat to get it to around 346 grams and 6 pts HL with a TW leather grip (thin one) and Wilson Sensation Overgrip. I typically like the Prince shape. I was trying to match the specs I would get for and Angell racket. I think the only thing I would change is I would step down in grip size to L2.

The spin and plow is great on the Vantage. I think it matches up with my current racket (Prince EXO3 Graphite 100). I like thin beams and I wasn't sure if I was going to like the 21mm beam width and "D" shape beam profile. I really like it on the serve. I get more power and feel with the vantage. I still get the same topspin on groundstrokes and the serve. The tell-tale sign I really like the racket is that I was able to hit my OHBH for winners and passing shots.

Anyhow I would really like to buy two of the Angellrackets ($175) but it's too expensive for me right now. I was thinking of buying and getting the red vantage to spec.. oh well.. but in final vantage/angell rackets are great...

Can anyone tell me how these racquets feel in terms of comfort, especially for the 63 RA in either the 95 or 100 head sizes, if more info on how I'd set it up is needed than ill reply with it but just wondering how the frame itself is, if its stiff or not just really wanna know if its arm friendly

Can anyone tell me how these racquets feel in terms of comfort, especially for the 63 RA in either the 95 or 100 head sizes, if more info on how I'd set it up is needed than ill reply with it but just wondering how the frame itself is, if its stiff or not just really wanna know if its arm friendly

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to add to this, this seems promising just wondering if building a custom angell frame to be arm friendly is possible and looking for some help in this aspect

must say.. i'm getting dialed in with the vantage 100 racket right now.. I really want to get Angell rackets but the cost is too much to bear right now so I am looking into getting some used ones here and on flea bay and lead it up to my specs..

one question about vantage/angell... do the grip sizes run kinda big? the one I have has a vantage leather grip (wilson shape/L3) but feels smaller than the grip on my BLX 6.1 95 with OG. It could be the leather grip is that thick... I put a TW thin leather grip with Wilson Sensation OG but I didnt' like it.. I put back on the Vantage grip while stretching it a bit to make it smaller and realized I like playing with leather bare!